On August 4, 2026, our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Marlene Theobald, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior at the blessed age of 94. She passed peacefully, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family.

She is survived by her three daughters Christi Young (Bob), Debbi Rock (Bob), and Kathi Collison (Chip), 7 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Though our hearts ache, we rejoice knowing she is now in the presence of The Lord and reunited with those who went before her.

She carried a lively spirit throughout her life and remained active even into her later years. In her younger days, she found joy in roller skating, and later enjoyed yoga, water aerobics, and senior fitness classes. Alongside her active lifestyle, her mental toughness and deep love for her family carried her through the years.

A devoted advocate for animal welfare, she supported local shelters and rescue organizations, guided by a compassion for animals of every kind. She had a special fondness for cats and never hesitated to care for strays in need of a kind heart. She also found simple joy in watching and feeding the birds that visited her backyard in Downtown Farmington, Michigan, the community she proudly called home for most of her life.

She worked at Thayer‑Rock Funeral Home until her retirement, serving families with compassion during their most difficult moments. In her earlier years, she wore many hats — from telephone operator to waitress — all while embracing her most meaningful role as a mother of three.

She enjoyed playing cards, flee market and garage sale hunting, shopping, reading, swimming, laying in the sun on a beautiful summer day, and spending time with her friends and family.

Among the many things she held close to her heart, travel was one of her greatest joys. She spent many years as a member of the Nomads Travel Group, sharing unforgettable adventures across the United States and around the world. One of her most treasured journeys was her trip to Africa, where she drifted above the Serengeti in a hot air balloon and witnessed the beauty of its wildlife, a moment she spoke of often.

Her love for the arts also shone brightly in her role as a volunteer theater usher at The Detroit Opera House, where she enjoyed welcoming audiences and sharing in the performances she appreciated.

Her faith grounded her and was always an important part of who she was to her core. Harvest Temple Worship Center in Farmington, Michigan was her home church for many years, where she served faithfully by helping count the offering, singing in the choir, and supporting the church with dedication.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Though she is no longer with us, her love, strength, and lively spirit will continue to live on through her family and in the countless cherished memories they will carry with them always.

In keeping with her wishes, she will be laid to rest at the Bigfork Community Cemetery in the peaceful landscape of Bigfork, Montana – a place she held dear.

In honor of Marlene’s lifelong passion for animals, the family requests donations to local animal rescue organizations or the Humane Society.